“It was fun, exciting though a little bit tiring. However, I know I have done my share in protecting and preserving the environment,” said Ruthzell Octavio of Polomolok National High School.

Octavio, a 15-year old Roverette Scout, joined her schoolmates in the tree-planting at Tahakayo, barangay Amsipit, a former strife-torn area.

“May konting adventure. And I love the view you will see going to this place,” Octavio added.

As the tree-planting went on, 2,500 Jamborette participants joined the coastal clean-up Sunday in the shorelines of Maasim. The scouts were participants of the five-day 2006 Scout Jamborette and Eco-Camp in Maasim. The Jamborette attracted 3,000 participants from the provinces of Sarangani, South Cotabato and the City of Koronadal.

Gov. Migs Dominguez and Mayor Jojo Lopez joined the scouts in the tree-planting.

“I am extending my gratitude to all those who planted trees today. You have extended a great help to the people of Maasim and Sarangani,” Mayor Lopez told the scouts.

“I have learned a lot in this activity. It is such a nice feeling to know that you have done something good for mother earth,” said 15 year-old Jenlyn Magbanua, a Roverette also from Polomolok.

Sitio Tahakayo is a former conflict-area between the government and lawless elements. The place was able to transform itself into what is now known as the “From Arms to Farms” program area.

Pineapple giant Dole Philippines has already started its pineapple plantation in the area with almost a thousand hectares already planted.

Dole is planning to expand to 3,000 hectares in the near term. It was also set to plant strawberries and blueberries in Amsipit.

“We have seen efforts from the different sectors of society in caring for our environment. Hopefully this will send a strong signal to our people that preserving and protecting the environment is a paramount concern,” Gov. Dominguez said.

The Jamborette started Saturday and will end on October 25.

On June 19, 500 students also planted trees here. (Sarangani IO/PIA 12) [top]